Effective this Wednesday, Manitobans will be able to purchase higher levels of third-party liability insurance coverage for their automobiles from Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI).

Crown Services Minister Ron Schuler and MPI announced yesterday that $7m and $10m liability coverage will be made available to supplement the existing $1m, $2m, and $5m coverage options. Rental vehicle insurance will also include the new $10m liability coverage limit.

Learn more about third-party damage insurance here.

Winnipeg Sun reported that all customers will be able to purchase increased liability coverage starting Wednesday, regardless of the renewal or re-assessment date.

“Court judgements in the United States and some Canadian provinces can far exceed Manitoba’s current liability coverage limits,” explained Schuler in a press release. “These court actions represent a real risk for Manitobans who drive their vehicles outside Manitoba and I am pleased that Manitoba Public Insurance is continuing to evolve its products and services to meet the needs of its customers.”

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“Manitobans who drive their own vehicles or use rental vehicles outside the province are particularly exposed and are encouraged to consider these new optional coverage options,” added MPI vice-president of Loss Prevention and Communications Ward Keith.

Third party liability coverage protects motorists if a suit is filed against them for property damage caused by at-fault motor vehicle collisions. MPI’s expanded coverage options should also be able to cover for injuries to other individuals resulting from collisions that occur outside of Manitoba. In either case, drivers could be legally obligated to pay for damages that exceed liability coverage limits.


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